Higher Concept: What are Cannabis Topicals, and How Do They Work?
If you are a cannabis user, then chances are that you have heard the term “topicals.” What are they? How do they work? In this article, we will answer these questions and more.
Cannabis topicals come in many forms. They can be lotions, creams or ointments. The active ingredient is usually tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is what gives marijuana its psychoactive effects. Topical applications of cannabis does not get people high because it bypasses the blood-brain barrier and goes straight to localized areas of pain relief, as well as other therapeutic benefits.
THC topicals: a new form of treatment that can be used for chronic pain
One of the primary uses of cannabis topicals is to treat chronic pain. Cannabis can be applied to the skin, and then it will go directly into a localized area for relief from that particular issue.
There are two main types of cannabis treatments: absorption and accumulation. Absorption treatment is when all of the cannabis topicals are absorbed by the outer layers of your skin where they’re converted into different forms of cannabinoids that can then enter your bloodstream. Accumulation treatment is when the topicals are applied to problem areas and they accumulate in these places, providing relief for a chronic condition.
Cannabis lotion can also be used to treat psoriasis. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes skin cells (keratinocytes) to grow at an abnormally rapid rate. A cannabis topical can treat this condition by decreasing the rate of cell growth and can even help eliminate it.
Cannabis topicals are absorbed by the skin, not the lungs
Because THC infused topicals are applied to the skin and not inhaled or consumed like other cannabis products, they will not produce a high. THC is metabolized differently depending on the method of cannabis consumption. When applied to the skin, THC will bind to CB-receptors and regulate the production of different hormones.
These topicals are also known as a local pain treatment, because they can be applied directly to specific regions that are in need of relief for acute or chronic pains. Topical cannabis is often used on joint pain, neuralgia (nerve pain), muscle spasms.
How do cannabis infused topicals work?
The cannabinoid receptors in your skin react to cannabinoids applied on them, which helps relieve pain and inflammation.
Topicals are often used in combination with other treatments, like massage or acupuncture. This will help stimulate the central nervous system and promote a sense of well-being.
Types of topicals
There are many ways to use THC topicals. Some of the most common include:
- Creams and lotions. Like a normal cream or lotion, creams are applied to the skin to provide relief for localized pain.
- Ampoules. THC is mixed with alcohol in ampoules that can be injected into muscles where they will absorb faster than if applied topically. This type of cannabis treatment can be used for relief from chronic pains.
- Packs and patches. THC infused packs or patches are applied like a bandaid, where they will passively release cannabinoids over a period of time to provide pain relief.
Is there anything the cannabis plant can’t do? Stop by Frost Exotic Cannabis recreational dispensary to begin exploring the world of cannabis topicals.
Open 8am – 11:50pm, daily

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